Trailblazing Women: Breaking Barriers in Jammu and Kashmir's Politics

Three women, including former minister Sakeena Masood, secured seats in the male-dominated Assembly of Jammu and Kashmir. Sakeena Masood, Shagun Parihar, and Shamim Firdous marked significant wins, with Parihar beating a veteran politician. Despite setbacks for others, the election saw increased female representation.

In a historic turn of events for Jammu and Kashmir's political landscape, three women, including former minister Sakeena Masood, have emerged victorious in the latest Assembly elections, reaffirming the growing influence of female leaders in a traditionally male-dominated arena.

Sakeena Masood secured a decisive win in the D H Pora Assembly seat, Kulgam district, outpacing her opponent Gulzar Ahmed Dar by 17,449 votes. Meanwhile, the BJP's Shagun Parihar claimed a tight victory in the Kishtwar Assembly seat, unseating experienced National Conference leader Sajad Ahmed Kitchloo by a mere 521 votes.

National Conference's Shamim Firdous continued her success from previous elections, defeating BJP rival Ashok Kumar Bhat in the Habbakadal seat of Srinagar district. Although some female candidates such as Iltija Mufti faced defeats, the elections symbolize an encouraging shift towards increased female participation in regional politics.

(With inputs from agencies.)